For ardent volleyball fans, the skills of the Nikolov brothers, Moni and Alex, are a sight to behold.
The two are part of a very young Bulgarian national team aiming to make its mark in the ongoing Volleyball Men’s World Championship — btoh already showing promise at such an early age.
For Moni, the younger of the siblings and the team’s setter, the moment was particularly special. Leading the squad on this world stage, and doing so in front of new fans, gave him and the team an added boost.
In their tournament opener against a familiar foe in Germany, the 18-year-old playmaker stepped up — not only with his 28 excellent sets but also with his own scoring contributions.
Moni finished with nine points, built on seven attacks and two service aces, helping Bulgaria secure a breakthrough victory.
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“It was a good game. When it came to the first set, it was up for grabs for anybody. From there, after we played well, we were able to get the win,” said the reigning US NCAA MVP from Long Beach State.
Playing in front of an intimate yet passionate crowd made the win even more meaningful for the young setter.
“It has been amazing. We were warmly welcomed, and I am very thankful for the Filipino fans. Hopefully, we will be able to make them happy in the next games,” Moni added.
His older brother Alex shared the same sentiment, proud to see Bulgaria’s young squad topple perennial contender Germany.
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“I’m really happy, and really proud of the team. We had a great performance. Honestly, it felt like a five-set match, even though it was just three, because of how intense that first set was. But still, I’m very proud of the team,” said the 21-year-old Cucine Lube Civitanova wing spiker, who erupted for 28 points off 25 spikes, two blocks, and a service ace.
As the elder sibling, Alex relished the chance to fight for the tricolor alongside his brother.
“I try to be the older brother and share the three years of professional experience I have over him. I know he listens, and he can trust me with anything, just as I trust him,” Alex said.
“It’s different from being just friends, because we are brothers in the end.”
